World Cup 2002

Player to watch: Puyol

Full name: Carles Puyol SatorcadaDate of
birth: 13 April 1978Club:Barcelona

A typical product of Barcelona's youth scheme, he made his
debut with Barça C in 1994. After playing several years in the lower
divisions, he was due to move to Málaga on loan in 1999. However he
preferred to stay on the books of Barça B, and after making his mark as
a substitute against Real Madrid, he became a regular member of the first
team.

He is a strong and versatile defender who can also contribute to
attack down the flanks, and has been chosen by Camacho ahead of Michel Salgado
for this World Cup. Thought by many to have been the best player at Barcelona
over the last twelve months, he was a shining light in an otherwise poor season
for his club. Naturally plays at right back , allthough he can play anywhere in
the back four and we may well see him in the centre of defence in this
tournament.